Tibetan community of Kamrao extending Sikyong a traditional welcome reception.

Dharamshala: Sikyong Penpa Tsering arrived at the Kamrao Tibetan settlement on 20 April 2025, as part of his recent official visits, to a warm reception from community members led by the Tibetan Settlement Officer.

Sikyong began his official programmes in the settlement with a series of visits to key institutions and offices, including to Ga Kye Gu Monastery (Sa Ngor Tse Chen Samdrub Ling Monastery), auditorium of the Local Tibetan Assembly, Tibetan Primary Health Centre, and Himalayan Tibetan Public School.

Later that day, Sikyong convened the general Tibetan public to address on key issues concerning land leased by state government and initiatives of the 16th Kashag. Emphasising the sustainability of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) for the continued endurance of the Tibetan struggle, Sikyong highlighted the importance of maintaining a close connection between the Tibetan people and the administration to ensure this. At the same time, he expressed concerns over the dwindling populations in Tibetan settlements, which have led to a drastic reduction in school and monastic enrolments.

Hence, Sikyong spoke about the 16th Kashag’s efforts to provide housing and land facilities to around 1,800 Tibetans who have recently come into exile and have no access to such resources, aiming to revitalise the community.

“Above all, seeking a resolution to the Tibet-China conflict through negotiation is our primary objective. To achieve this, the 16th Kashag is committed to adhering to the Middle Way Approach, while maintaining our firm stand on the factual status of Tibet as an independent nation in the past,” Sikyong added. “It is equally important that every Tibetan acquire knowledge about this and remain harmonious and united, despite differences in stands between Rangzen and Uma.”

Sikyong also discussed the Resolve Tibet Act, which asserts that the Tibet-China dispute remains an unresolved international issue. He also mentioned the US Secretary of State’s assurance of continued support for Tibet and the Tibetan people.